October 05, 2026
Little Grassy Get Down returns to SIU’s Touch of Nature Oct. 9-11
CARBONDALE, Ill. — The Little Grassy Get Down, a family-friendly music festival featuring Americana music from artists across the Midwest, returns to Southern Illinois University’s Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center Friday through Sunday, Oct. 9-11. Weekend passes are on sale now.
Performers include the Local Honeys, the Woodbox Gang, Chicago Farmer, Chloe Kimes, the Burney Sisters, Lucas Wayne & the City of Soul, the Hornworms featuring Hugh DeNeal, Carter and Connelley, and many more notable artists. Music runs from 5 p.m. to midnight Friday, 11 a.m. to midnight Saturday with bonfire jams to follow, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
While the lineup draws the crowds, Brian Croft, director of Touch of Nature, said the experience is what keeps people coming back.
“What we love most about the Get Down is the community that has grown around it. People come for the music, but they leave talking about the memories, the setting and the feeling of being part of something special.”
Beyond a fun weekend, the festival also supports Touch of Nature’s mission. “Proceeds help us continue creating outdoor experiences, improving our facilities and making programs accessible to more people,” Croft said.
More than music
Most weekend activities are included with a festival pass. Ride Illinois will lead guided bike rides for all ages and skill levels. Bikes and helmets are available to borrow from Touch of Nature, or guests may bring their own.
Move & Groove Kids Yoga is at 10:30 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. The Y’all Rock Instrument Petting Zoo runs from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, and contra dancing hosted by the Southern Illinois Contra Community takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday and 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday. No partner experience is needed.
For an additional fee, Neon Tiger will offer festival-inspired tattoos Saturday and Sunday, with proceeds supporting Touch of Nature. Free temporary tattoos are available for kids. Musicians of all skill levels can also register for a Wernick Method Jam Class led by Derek Giles Saturday.
The Kids Zone, cargo net tower, rock wall, giant swing and archery will operate at scheduled times. Touch of Nature’s multipurpose trails will be open for running, biking and hiking.
Attendees can shop Vendor Alley, which features a variety of vendors selling art, decor and more. Festival and artist merchandise will also be available at the merch-and-info booth in Jam Camp, near Vendor Alley.
Food and beverages, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, will be available at the Get Down Kitchen in Freeberg Hall and the Get Down Bar and Grill.
Tickets
Advance ticket prices, with gate prices in parentheses, are:
- Weekend pass — $110 ($125)
- Friday pass — $35 ($45)
- Saturday pass — $65 ($75)
- Sunday pass — $35 ($45)
On-site ticket purchase will be available at the box office located at the SIU Credit Union Trailhead at the entrance of Touch of Nature. SIU students can buy a weekend pass, which includes tent camping, for $75 ($85), or a Saturday pass for $35 ($45). A valid SIU ID is required at the gate. Youth passes for ages 15 and under are free with a paying adult.
The Little Grassy Get Down takes place rain or shine.
For more details, visit the festival’s information page, call 618-453-1122 or email ton@siu.edu.